Medical-only states (Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, and Puerto Rico) already have the basic framework needed to help patients benefit from federal recognition, but that does not mean they are ready. States still need to ensure patients can enroll, renew, update caregiver information, maintain confidential records, and receive clear guidance on why current medical cannabis documentation matters during the federal transition.
These states should move quickly to support medical cannabis businesses seeking DEA registration by educating licensees, issuing state verification letters, and confirming the status of licensed medical activity. They should also modernize registry procedures, reduce patient barriers where possible, and begin automatic cannabis record clearing so old convictions do not block patients, caregivers, workers, owners, or legacy operators from participating in the medical cannabis system.
Here is what you can do:
1. Email your cannabis regulatory agency a copy of ASA's State Preparedness for Federal Cannabis Regulation & Enforcement: Part 1, State Actions Needed to Preserve & Protect Patient Access.
Find your state's regulatory agency by using these state-by-state resources.
2. Your Governor and State Representatives need to hear from you, TODAY!
Use the sample letter below to tell them about the June 26, 2026, DEA registration deadline and send them a copy of ASA's State Preparedness for Federal Cannabis Regulation & Enforcement: Part 1, State Actions Needed to Preserve & Protect Patient Access.
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